Motorsport 1 year ago

F1: The hottest GP of the season

After fifteen editions held in the “spring”, the Malaysian Grand Prix returns to its original October spot on the calendar, which is when took place on its debut in 1999 and again the following year.

Two weeks on from the Singapore Grand Prix and as the first part of a double-header with Japan, the Malaysian race will be held as always at the Sepang International Circuit, one of the most technical tracks on the Formula One calendar.

It combines long straights with tight and complex corners and has often been the scene of on-track duels, for which it is well suited.

The weather is unpredictable, regularly regaling competitors with torrential downpours, while it is very hot and humid, which makes life tough for the drivers.

“Malaysia is usually the hottest race of the season” explains Ferrari driver Sebastian Vettel on the eve of a race which one year ago delivered his maiden victory with the Scuderia. “We did very well last year, so we’ll try to repeat what we did. For sure the first win with Ferrari was very emotional and very special. We had a great race and a fun night after that.”

“So, I have good memories and I am looking forward to going back to Malaysia and hit the track. I think it’s very challenging. You have a lot of high-speed corners. It’s very tough on tires because usually it’s so hot. There are chances of rain at some point of the race. There are thunderstorms there nearly every day.”

“It’s not easy to get everything right but if you do it, it feels great. It’s one of those places that challenges you. But if you get on top of it it’s a great feeling that we had last year and obviously the target is to have it again.”